Technology

The USC Professor Who Pioneered Socially Assistive Robotics

Source

IEEE Spectrum

Published

Apr 20, 2026

TL;DR

AI Generated

Maja Matarić, a USC professor, is at the forefront of socially assistive robotics, with her latest creation aiding students' mental health. Bandit, the robot, engages in games with children on the autism spectrum and provides them with positive affirmations. Matarić's work showcases the potential for robots to support individuals in various aspects of their lives, highlighting the intersection of technology and human well-being.

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